CSSD & Endoscopy Decontamination Operative at UPMC Kildare

Role Overview

UPMC Kildare Hospital is seeking a dedicated CSSD & Endoscopy Decontamination Operative to join their permanent staff. This position is responsible for the thorough cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization of medical instruments using both manual and mechanical techniques to guarantee a high-quality service.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform decontamination of used medical devices by mechanical cleaning methods.
• Inspect and test the functionality of medical devices, reporting any irregularities promptly to the CSSD Manager.
• Inspect, assemble, and pack instrument sets and other related equipment for sterilization processes.
• Load and unload autoclaves and sterilize instrument packs and sets.
• Examine sterilized packs for any damages such as tears or moisture prior to storage.
• Distribute and appropriately store all sterilized instruments and equipment.
• Monitor autoclave, washer/disinfector performance and identify any malfunctions.
• Conduct daily and weekly testing of sterilization equipment including autoclaves, washers/disinfectors, heat sealers, and ultrasonics.
• Maintain detailed logs with clear signatures for all relevant sterilization data.
• Keep records in line with departmental policies and European Union legislation.
• Archive documentation according to national and EU guidelines.
• Manage inventory including restocking shelves with sterile supplies and assisting with stock control.
• Handle storage and movement of raw materials and components safely.
• Adhere strictly to infection prevention protocols and use personal protective equipment to maintain health and safety standards.
• Promptly report any incidents or accidents to the CSSD Manager following hospital policies.
• Participate in quality control activities including manual and computerized traceability and monthly hygiene audits.
• Maintain cleanliness and orderliness in the department while reporting any issues.
• Communicate effectively with the multidisciplinary team as needed to ensure patient care quality.
• Ensure all CSSD equipment is checked by authorized personnel according to hospital procedures.
• Demonstrate proactive learning, openness to innovations, mentoring of new staff, and take responsibility for personal professional development.
• Comply with uniform guidelines and safety protocols.
• Be prepared to work in other hospital areas as required by the management based on patient needs.

Additional Information

Staff must provide documentary proof of all claimed training and experience if requested. The role requires adherence to hospital values and active involvement in quality assurance and safety programs, including audits and health and safety education. Confidentiality of patient and staff information is paramount and must be maintained at all times.

Qualifications and Experience

• No formal qualifications required.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, manage multiple issues simultaneously, and maintain attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills with excellent written and verbal communication.
• Physical capability to meet the demands of the role.
• Commitment to patient safety in all CSSD processes.
• Motivated with the ability to anticipate difficulties and devise solutions.
• Flexibility to adapt to varying job requirements.

Employment Terms

Salary ranges from €33,804 to €41,260 annually based on a 39-hour workweek. This description may evolve as business needs change. UPMC is an equal opportunity employer, celebrating diversity and offering competitive benefits including comprehensive parental leave, pension, death-in-service benefits, critical illness coverage up to age 66, recognition programs, enhanced annual leave up to 27 days, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for career development.

About UPMC

UPMC is a prestigious global academic medical center dedicated to patient-centered care through innovation, research, and education. In Ireland, UPMC operates multiple hospitals and clinics, extending specialist care and advanced technologies to patients throughout the region.